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ISSN 2201-7437Print Post Approved PP 100004645

Issue 32December 2015/January2016

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CHRISTMAS GREETINGS

TATURA MEMORIAL SERVICEDoris Frank and Renate Weber

REFLECTIONTheo Richter4

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15

Templer TalkCopy DeadlineIssue 33: Monday 18 January, 2016

All submissions and correspondence should be addressed to: Angela WoodburnCommunication & PromotionTemple Society Australia152 Tucker RoadBentleigh VIC 3204E: [email protected]

Editorial TeamAngela WoodburnMark HerrmannPeter Hornung

DisclaimerThis work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives 4.0 International License © 2015 Temple Society Australia. The information, views and opinions expressed in Templer Talk are those of the respective authors and contributors and are not necessarily shared by the publisher or its staff.

Published by Temple Society AustraliaABN 35 439 044 725 ACN 004 279 001

www.templesociety.org.au

CONTENTS3

4

6

7

8

9

10

11

17

26

Regional Council Update...............................................

Reflection........................................................................

Community Care............................................................

Youth..............................................................................

Sydney...........................................................................

CHAMPION....................................................................

TTHA.............................................................................

Articles............................................................................

Notices...........................................................................

Calendar.........................................................................

Templer Talk December 2015/January 2016 3

It is prescribed that the parties to the Strategic Relationship Agreement (SRA, effective from 30/06/2013, relating to changes of ownership and control of TTHA) regularly review the document to discuss its effectiveness. The TSA is satisfied with the SRA and its contents, but has invited the AGWS to make comment.

Consumer Affairs Victoria has clarified the extent of Retirement Villages Act encumbrances over the land at Bayswater. Initially it was thought that the redrawing of title boundaries had resulted in the encumbrances impacting all the TSA land, including that utilised for community activities. It now transpires that there are no such encumbrances to the north of the entrance road that extends from Elizabeth Street to the caretaker’s residence.

I am planning a visit to Germany and the TGD in May 2016.

RC members spent considerable meeting time identifying targets against the objectives and strategies of its strategic plan. Each of the nine priority areas now has a list of potential targets attached. This will be further teased out with the input of the Focus Groups, such that short-, medium- and long-term targets are set.

The first quarter financials show we are tracking in line with the budget.

The final RC meeting for the year, apart from being an Extended RC meeting with Focus Group representation, will also serve as the TSA’s triennial structure review.

REGIONAL COUNCIL MEETING - NOVEMBER

Planning for Sommerfest 2016 has already begun, with the Social & Recreation Focus Group again looking for volunteers to support their efforts. There will be some changes to next year’s event, scheduled for Sunday, March 6. Stay tuned.

Mark Herrmann

4 Templer Talk December 2015/January 2016

“So this is Christmas And what have you doneAnother year overAnd a new one just begun”John Lennon and Yoko OnoThe Plastic Ono Band

It’s a song I remember with fondness from John Lennon’s famous anti-war song Happy Christmas (War is over) and it’s one I always think about at this time of year as we ramp up to the second biggest festival on the Christian calendar – Christmas and the celebration of the birth of Christ. The song was released in 1971 (yes, I remember those days) and was rooted in the counterculture movement at that time, protesting directly at the US involvement in the Vietnam War. I remember a similar movement in Australia with the same goal of ending the senseless war that no one was winning. So why am I writing this in our Christmas and New Year edition of Templer Talk?

I think it’s because I’m finding it hard to reconcile my core humanist and pacifist beliefs with the events that are unfolding around me – sparked most recently by the last few days in Paris. I know I need to restrain my political commentary in a publication such as ours, but fear I would be remiss not to mention the sheer repulsiveness of those activities rained down on innocent people. And it’s not just in Paris; it’s in Palestine, in North and South African countries, in the US and in Australia. No one is blameless. There seems to be a hardening of heart and a decline into fundamentalism on all sides of society; be that political, social or legislative.

I’m not an expert in any of these fields, but I do find it hard to reconcile that, in a short decade or so, Australia has gone from a relatively open, accepting, benevolent society that was a leader

in human rights issues, in social conscience issues and multiculturalism to one that seems now to be spiralling down into what is becoming more and more a closed, protective ‘them and us’ – completely ignoring our moral and social obligations. Enough said! And what remains to say is that I hope and pray we can stop this madness as quickly as it has begun. And to all those who are targeted and oppressed, I hope and pray that we as a society and as sister nations can tear down these walls and welcome sanity and clear thinking over radicalism and fundamentalism.

“So this is ChristmasAnd what have you done”

Yes, it’s that time of year again. The buzz of Christmas shopping; the baking of delicious Gutsle; breaking out Christmas tree decorations and fairy lights; the work and social Christmas break-up parties; the frantic lead-up to Christmas Eve and, finally, the culmination of all that effort, the gathering of family and close friends to celebrate with carols, presents under the tree, good food and good cheer in abundance. It is a time for sharing, a time for reflection and a time to try to refocus our efforts on making this world a better place.

We look over our achievements of the past year and reflect on what we did well and ruminate over what we could have done better. This is reconciliation time – recognising our place in the world and building on the past, so that we can set a clearer, more positive future. Usually at this time of year, in my working life, I was called upon to set my KPIs (Key Productivity Indicators) for the next year. It was a process that involved many reviews and a bit of head-banging to finally come out with a few short achievement goals, only to all be thrown over by hand-me-down KPIs from above.

REFLECTION Theo Richter


REFLECTION Theo Richter

The one thing I remember from that process is that there were very few, if any, personal growth goals. You all know what I mean – the ‘touchy feely’ stuff that is the core of what makes us human beings. Love! Humility! Acceptance of ourselves and others! Seeing the goodness in people! Being real! Being tolerant! Behaving honourably! Being honest! Being empathetic! Despite never making the KPI targets, these are honourable goals.

Genuine achievements that define a person, that define a workforce and ultimately, that define the company – a company where people are happy to work and a company that people are happy to engage for their goods and services.

Why don’t these honourable goals make the KPI list? I think that’s because these are attributes that can’t really be defined or measured, and, let’s face it, business is all about what can be measured. What score could you give an employee if their end-of-year review included a rating of, ‘they’re a good person!’? And yet, that is what’s important in a business – people and how they react with each other in an environment where they spend a significant portion of their day.

And that is what’s important in a society! The TSA is a microcosm of a larger community. And that community is a microcosm of a larger society.

And that society is a microcosm of the country – Australia. And Australia is a microcosm of the nations that make the world! So how we behave, how we measure ourselves is really important. It can’t just be on economics and industry. It needs to also be on standards that define our humanity! And on our ability to bring together the wealth that is the human diversity and put it to work on mutually beneficial outcomes.

Over the next few weeks, the Christians of the world will celebrate a truly remarkable event. As we celebrate Christmas, we will commemorate a Turkish Bishop (6/12, Saint Nicholas), an Aramaic Wandering Preacher (24/12, Jesus) and two Jewish Shepherds along with three Persian-Arab Astronomers (25/12). If Jesus was able to bring these diverse peoples together 2000 years ago without TV, radio, the internet, Facebook and YouTube, imagine what we could do if we harnessed our technology to the good and betterment of mankind, rather than for alienation and for profit?

I read an article in, of all places, Wheels magazine, about the resurgence of the British Jaguar Land Rover group, brought back to life by the Indian manufacturer Tata Motors. It’s not the cars that drew my attention, but rather a quote made by the current Chairman Emeritus of the Tata Group, Ratan Tata, “I know I have had a good day when I put my head on my pillow and can say ‘I have done no harm!’”

Allow me to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! May your celebrations be festive and relaxing!

And don’t forget to say a prayer to all who are in need of solace and comfort, wherever they be.


Thank you all for your kind words, good wishes and concern for my family after last month’s Templer Talk article. I am most grateful! We are slowly getting back on track and my partner’s recovery is progressing nicely.

It’s the end of another year and I cannot believe how quickly time has passed once again! May your Christmas season be joyful and full of memory-making occasions and your new year a safe and healthy one. I will be taking some time off in January, but the dates are unconfirmed at this time, so please feel free to contact me if you need me in January and I will get back to you.

2016 will be filled with some great community events, some new and some old favourites! Keep an eye on your Templer Talk, the Hub, TSA online and Facebook pages! There is so much going on in our little community with the potential for a great deal of participation and involvement that I hope 2016 will bring an increase in membership, an increase in the number of members attending or volunteering at community events and, most of all, an increase in Templer spirit. I heard Mark Herrmann describe our community and religion perfectly the other day when he said “we demonstrate our faith through community”.

CHAMPION has seen an increase in the number of people asking for help coming up to Christmas and is most grateful for all the donations of Christmas gifts and petrol vouchers received to date. We are accepting Christmas gifts up to December 6 in Bentleigh and in Bayswater, and vouchers on an ongoing basis. We also welcome donations of food or money, which can be deposited into the Temple Society bank account, reference CHAMPION. We are most grateful to all who have volunteered their time and donated goods, services, vouchers, gifts and money throughout the year. We really are appreciative and want you to know we ARE making

COMMUNITY CARE

Martina EatonCommunity Care Worker M: 0433 335 815E: [email protected]

ContactMartina

a difference in people’s lives. A reminder that you are all welcome to visit CHAMPION whenever we are open, or if you are in need of assistance, feel free to make an appointment with me, and I will meet you privately.

Telelink will be held on December 4, the final session for 2015, and will return on January 22 2016 at 2.00pm. I would like to say a very special thank you to Erika Christian for her ongoing commitment and facilitation of our Telelink group. We welcome new members anytime.

I thank you for another year as your Care Worker. I look forward to seeing you at some of the Christmas celebrations in Bayswater and Bentleigh over the coming weeks. To keep the kids occupied during the school holidays make sure you visit my Facebook page (www.facebook.com/tsacareworkermartina.eaton) for some ideas.

As always, I am available to help at any time Monday to Friday from 9.00am to 5.00pm (or after hours by appointment). I look forward to seeing many of you before Christmas. I will be away in January, so please contact me if you would like to catch up before then.

Keep smiling!

mailto:careworker%40templesociety.org.au?subject=

http://www.facebook.com/tsacareworkermartina.eaton

http://www.facebook.com/tsacareworkermartina.eaton


Youth Group Break-upSaturday, December 12

This will be our last youth group activity for the year, so everyone is invited to come along to the party! We’re planning fish and chips on the beach with water and beach games or a visit to the new Peninsula Aquatic and Recreation Centre (PARC) in Frankston (depending on the weather). Families are welcome to join us for fish and chips! This activity is suitable for kids aged 10 years and over.

Times: 6.00pm to 9.30pmCost: $20 per person (includes fish and chips). BYO drinkTransport: Rosa bus – we are hoping for a driver, but this needs to be confirmedRSVP: Monday, December 7

Weihnachtsfeier, Community Christmas CelebrationSaturday, December 19

Times: 6.00pm Where: TSA Bayswater Hall 51 Elizabeth St, Bayswater

Family Water Fun DaySunday, January 24

Start the 2016 year off with a great family day out, enjoying the sunshine and water activities just before heading back to school! The venue and all details are still to be confirmed and will be emailed to everyone in the next couple of weeks, so keep a lookout! If you are interested and would like further information, send me an email. Times: All dayCost: TBCTransport: Rosa bus (TBC) RSVP: Expressions of interest are welcome now. Final RSVP Friday, January 15

Susi RichterCommunity Youth CoordinatorM: 0400 764 257E: [email protected]

Coming Up

January 9 to 13Youth CampPhillip Island

January 9 to 15Summercamp 2016Torquay

Sunday, January 24Family Water Fun Day

Friday, February 12Kaleidoscope, Bayswater

YOUTH

ContactSusi

BirthdaysDecemberMatilda Rose Luke Sawatzky JanuaryHayden Glenk Chloe Hoefer Jadyn Katz Heidi Loebert Oliver Turner Lucinda Uhlherr


Well, another year is almost over, and we are winding up, ready for Christmas again. So many things have happened during the year: community events such as Seniors’ Group; Girls’ night out; winery tour; the healthy cooking workshop; the Lieder concert and, yet to come, our Christmas night out. Maybe this is why the year has moved so quickly, it has been so full of wonderful things shared with you amazing people!

I would like to proudly announce that I am a grandmother again – my daughter Emma had a beautiful daughter, Sienna Grace, on November 18. She was in a hurry to meet her family, arriving in the car with her Dad and two brothers there! All are doing well and I am looking forward to my next grandchild, due in a week’s time. Two Christmas presents for me!

The presentation of Evan Stewart in October was a wonderful affair. Theo Richter came to assist with this – he also presided at Loretta and Brian’s wedding, so it made this an extra-special event. Thank you Loretta for providing a delicious lunch for everyone who attended; it was very generous of you, a display of true Templer spirit! Evan kept us all entertained with his big smile and cheeky antics; he is so cute.

Herta Uhlherr presented the Advent service in November. Such a lovely atmosphere with the Christmas tree decorated and lit, and the Adventskranz displayed beautifully – thanks to Hartmut Beck for coming so early and setting these up for us. It really was a beautiful sight. Herta was a delight, sharing with us a message about caring for our world and for one another by changing unhelpful attitudes and behaviour. She reminded us that we really are in this world together and need to include all of our brothers and sisters, regardless of their attitudes and beliefs. Thank you once again, Herta, for your thought-provoking message.

SYDNEY

Jan JohnsonSydney Community Support WorkerM: 0412 731 101E: [email protected]

ContactJan

Our Christmas night out will be held on December 4. I am sure it is going to be a real treat. Seniors’ Group Christmas get-together is on Friday, December 11 at Wentworthville Leagues Club at 11.30am.

Don’t forget our Christmas service on Sunday, December 20 at 4.00pm. We are looking forward to some musical treats; Oscar and Oliver Turner and Victoria and Veronica Schulz will be displaying their musical talents for us with trumpets, piano and clarinet. Join us for some Christmas carols and a visit from Santa for the little ones. If you would like to have a present for your child or grandchild, please speak to Ingrid Turner or to me; a small donation towards the cost will be appreciated.

For those of you who have internet access, don’t forget to check out the Hub (via the TSA website). This is an interactive webpage that will provide you with up-to-date information on all things Templer and the opportunity to communicate with others.

I will be on leave from Monday, December 21 until Wednesday, January 27, 2016. Please contact the TSA Melbourne Office if you need anything during this time. Have a safe and happy Christmas and New Year; see you in 2016!

mailto:jan%40templesociety.org.au?subject=


My connection to CHAMPION stems from my friendship with Martina Eaton. Martina’s son Tom attended Bayswater South Primary School, where I have taught for many years. Martina was always a very involved parent during Tom’s primary years, and it came as no surprise to me that she conceived the idea of setting up a drop-in centre and food bank to help people in our community experiencing hardship. This idea seemed to quickly gain momentum and, before long, the organisation CHAMPION was up and running. It continues to grow along with Martina’s energy and passion for reaching out to others. I have been very happy to support Martina and this worthy cause.

I can’t remember exactly when I got involved beyond moral support and encouragement of Martina’s endeavours. More than likely, it was pre-Christmas because my thoughts, like many people’s, always turn to those who find Christmas a very challenging time of year due to financial difficulty or loneliness. I don’t embrace the notion of consumerism at Christmas despite the fact that we are coerced by retailers and the media to make this our biggest priority at Christmas. But I do think that Christmas can be hard for those who don’t have the means to give, or don’t have the option of a special family meal together because of financial constraints. I want a special day in my year to be special for more people.

A few months ago I spoke with the Year 5s and 6s at my school about a range of social problems in our community as well as on a global scale. At this time CHAMPION was running a food drive to increase essential stocks to meet demand. The students and I decided we would run our own school food and household goods drive for CHAMPION. We set about preparing notices and discussing the types of products that might be most useful. Our school captains spoke at

CHAMPION Maria McCluskey, Bayswater South Primary School

assembly, and various students took responsibility for signage and a display of the collected goods in our main reception area. Before long, we had amassed boxes and boxes of items. As suggested by Martina, we arranged the items in our assembly area to spell out the word “CHAMPION” and photographed aspects of the project to document what had been achieved. We then organised to hand-deliver the boxes to Martina – fortunately, we only had a short distance to walk, as many of the students over-estimated the weight they could carry, and we needed a few pit stops en route to redistribute the heavier items!

There really is a tremendous gain to be had from making just a small effort to help others. For me as a teacher, I saw the social development in my students, as well as their sheer enthusiasm and joy in being able to direct their energies to less standard learning and to out-of-classroom experiences. As adults, we need to ensure that we educate the next generation to be more focused on others and less consumed with themselves. If we start with our own communities and experience first-hand the difference we can make, we can all contribute to a happier, more inclusive society and world at large.

For more information on CHAMPION, you can visit www.templesociety.org.au/champion

Photo courtesy of Bayswater South Primary School

http://www.templesociety.org.au/champion


Our main event for the year, Weihnachtsmarkt, was held on November 22. It was a very successful day with over 5000 people in attendance.

There were 74 stalls this year; some of the items for sale included tea cup candles, jewellery, cards, handcrafted wooden gifts, Christmas stockings, dessert sauces, jams and relishes, German chocolates and nougat, hand-knitted clothing, Swarovski crystals and semi-precious jewellery, brooches, hair ties, gingerbread houses, beautiful Christmas candle holders and plants.

Our Christmas Raffle is also on again and will be drawn on December 18; the first prize is valued at $500, so don’t miss out on purchasing your tickets at $2 each or 3 for $5.

The entertainment at the Weihnachtsmarkt included students from Bayswater South Primary School performing Christmas carols sung in German, Hans Hahnemann the organ grinder, the Templer Brass Ensemble under Kurt Eppinger and an area dedicated especially for the kids. All of the entertainment was set up in the performance marquee with radio 3ZZZ in charge of the entertainers.

Taste buds were tempted with German sausages, sauerkraut, pretzels, cakes and German beer.It was wonderful to see so many volunteers help on the day; this included TTHA staff and Board, volunteers and the TSA. We thank the TSA for assisting with the parking and providing a respite area with their marquee for patrons to sit and have some time out. This proved to be very beneficial and we are appreciative of all your help and assistance.

TTHA

Eva SimoChief Executive OfficerP: 8720 1300E: [email protected]

ContactEva

With the festive season approaching, TTHA will be running a number of Christmas parties for staff, volunteers, residents and families during December. It will be a time to rejoice and reflect on the year that has gone.

We look forward to new beginnings and a wonderful 2016. We say goodbye again to the residents we have been so fortunate to share our lives with over the year and hope their families and friends have many wonderful memories they can continue to cherish. We welcome our new staff and residents and look forward to developing a closer relationship with them.

I wish you a blessed holiday season. May this Christmas bring you comfort, joy, peace and happiness to last throughout the coming year!


TATURA MEMORIAL SERVICE Doris Frank

After a considerable absence, I decided to attend the Memorial Service in Tatura this year. Hearing many stories and seeing pictures of my father (Lothar Böhmer) laying wreaths in memory of the German POWs interned at Murchison and Tatura over many years, I was a little surprised by the current low-key affair and lack of pomp and ceremony surrounding the occasion. It was also a little sad to see how few of the older generation are still around and able to commemorate the day. However, I was impressed by this year’s service for a number of reasons.

The relaxed tone of the day was set by the glorious, sunny weather amidst the hum of a tractor working in the nearby fields, whilst participants chased away the ever-present flies in true Aussie style. Mark Herrmann performed his role as Master of Ceremonies in his usual capable way. The smooth running of events attests to all the careful planning coordinated in the background before the event. The recently arrived Pastorin Claudia Ostarek from the Evangelical Church in Germany impressed us all with her message. She spoke in German, but clearly and slowly enough for those with limited German to cope. The Templer Choir performed and the wreath-laying was accompanied by the Brass Ensemble.

An added feature of this year’s service was the presentation by Heritage Victoria, awarding heritage status to the Tatura German War Cemetery with a plaque at the entrance. After the opportunity to pause and reflect at some of the Templer headstones (eleven died as civilian internees in Tatura) – and those of POWs from WW II and internees from both WW I and WW II, 250 graves in all – we made our way to the Golf Club, where lunch was generously sponsored by the German Embassy. Later, a short visit to the Tatura Irrigation and Wartime Camps Museum followed, before our chauffeur Tony collected his flock and drove us home to Bayswater in the Rosa bus.

I am grateful that there are so many people willing to put in the effort to make the day a success, be it preparing and organising the event, singing in the choir, performing with the brass ensemble or transporting people by car, bus and van.

I acknowledge the efforts of so many people who made this event the success that it was. Thank you!

Photos by Doris Frank


TATURA MEMORIAL SERVICE Renate Weber

It was a beautiful, sunny morning, the flies were buzzing and a group of Templers and other visitors, including distinguished guests, entered through the seven-pillared portal which opens onto the only German War Cemetery in Australia, now heritage-listed by the State of Victoria.

Flowers were laid beside the freshly cleaned headstones of departed family members and friends which have the deceased’s name and date of death inscribed. The bronze plaques also carry the Latin cross for civilian internees and the Iron Cross for Prisoners-of-War. The grounds are always immaculate when we visit this special place on this bitter-sweet day. The local RSL members have provided us with chairs and a gazebo to keep the hot Aussie sun off the heads of the officials. They have been so helpful to ensure this day runs smoothly. It is significant to see them wearing the twin flags of Germany and Australia on their lapels.

I showed my grandsons (and their dad) their great-great-grandfather’s plaque. He died of a broken heart, having been shipped with his two youngest children to Tatura – far from his home and property in Wilhelma, Palestine, where he had been Mayor, to the dusty, remote Australian countryside – to live behind barbed wire yet again.

As I sat listening to the speeches in the shade of the giant gum trees, the magpies warbled their sweet songs, the giant Grevillea Robusta waved its golden blossoms in the breeze, and flies kept everyone waving their fan-folded programs to shoo them away.

The program was moving and diverse, and the speeches were presented in both German and English. The Templer Brass Ensemble under the direction of Kurt Eppinger played a number of times. Mark opened the ceremony with his words of welcome, followed by Mr Josef Reichhardt, Chargé d’affaires, Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany. The Templer Choir conducted by Monika Strasser sang a hymn named Sanctus, accompanied by the Brass Ensemble.

It was interesting to listen to Claudia Ostarek speak in German about her role in the Evangelical Church in Germany and Pastor Christoph Dielmann (Trinity Church Melbourne) quoted the Isaiah text 2:4, “He shall judge between the nations, and shall decide disputes for many peoples; and they shall beat their swords into ploughshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.”

Oh, how we wish that text could be fulfilled! A number of speakers made mention of the recent atrocities inflicted on the people of Paris. Until we all learn to live tolerantly together, accepting one another with love, not hate, the world will be constantly at risk.

The wreath-laying ceremony was sombre, and it was encouraging to see the dignitaries walk together to lay their floral tributes. The lone man in military uniform (the Assistant to the Defence Attaché, German


Embassy) took the salute for all those whose last resting place this cemetery is, while the choir and brass band performed the poignant Ich hatt’ einen Kameraden. It tells of war, of camaraderie, of love, of loss and how we journey on. Tim Smith and Prof Andrew May spoke of the significance of the cemetery in Australian history and how important democracy in Australia is.

A delicious lunch at the Hilltop Golf and Country Club was enjoyed by all, after the Rosa bus was successfully “snatch-strapped” out of the ditch.

A number of us also walked down memory lane at the Tatura Museum, where Lurline and Arthur welcomed us with big smiles and a lovely cuppa. I enjoyed showing my grandchildren the old Christmas tree from the Red Cross, the red-dyed uniforms and all the handmade toys. Some grandchildren even got to see their Opa’s school reports from sixty-plus years ago!

It was an eventful day, filled with sadness for those whose lives were lost, joy at being together sharing memories, traditions, music and food, as well as expressing our hope that Australia, and indeed the world, might find peace.

(The Tatura Historical Society holds a guided tour to Camp 1 every October for those who are sure of foot)

Photos by John Maddock


SOCIAL DANCE GROUP

The first Social Dance Group was held on November 18 at Bayswater Hall.

Photos by Kirrily Kirstin

Our next Social Dance Group in the Bayswater Hall is scheduled for Wednesday, February 17, from 1.00 to 2.30pm.

The VW van will be departing the Bentleigh Hall at 12.10pm and has room for six participants.

Please note the date in your new 2016 diary. We will remind you again in the February Templer Talk. We also plan to have a dance session at Sommerfest on Sunday, March 6. It is a lot of fun!

Marianne Herrmann


We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Gretel Krockenberger

Bruno and Trudy Herrmann

Herb and Marianne Schnerring

Theo and Susan Graze

Mark and Marianne Herrmann with Alastair and Patti, Nicholas and Connie and Monika

Lilli Waechter

Erich and Anna Waechter

Luise Wagner

Hermann Ralph and Herta Uhlherr with family

Rolf and Vyrna Beilharz

Enno and Gisela Schmidt

Talja and Tobian Roesner

Tony and Renate Beilharz with family

Helga Anderson

Christian Anderson and Tiffany Conway with Amelia and Abbey

Silvia and Brendon Anderson with Noah and Zoe

Erika Anderson and Katrina Heath

Hiltraud Kinder

Martha Strasser

Monika Strasser

Antonia Kinder and Darren Strachan

Hulda Wagner

Ilse Birkner

Alfred and Alwyn Steltenkamp

Felix and Ruth Haar

Manfred and Hildegard Mischker

John and Lottie Hohnholt

Rosemarie and Peter Weller and family

Walter Struve


Erika and Con Kotsiakos and family

Gerda Struve

Elisabeth Wagner

Philip and Ryan Wagner with Carmel Warren

Michael and Marie Wagner

Christine Wagner and Stephen Kruk with Sophie and Bridget

Kurt and Erna Unger with Gertrud and Walter

Edith Hatswell

Anne Stevens

Lotte and Eric Hoopmann

Edith Unger

Uli and Rose Asenstorfer

Sieger and Rose Hahn

Gisela Hoffmann

Erika Schulz

Heinz and Eva Steller

Anny Beck (Steller)

Wally Liebeskind

Christine Withey and family

Hugo and Erni Weller

Gisela Tautz (Steller)

Ingrid Turner

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year


Notices

Solar Workshops

For more information, please email Bernie Hoefer on [email protected]

Interested in finding out more about solar solutions for your home?

First Wednesday of every month

Next workshop:Wednesday, December 2 8.00 to 9.00pmBayswater Hall

Bookings required!www.eventbrite.com.au/e/bgh-so-lar-workshop-tickets-16626968711

$20 per personReimbursed when you place an order with us!

OFFICE CLOSUREAs usual, the TSA Office will not be fully attended during the Christmas and summer holiday period.

We will close on Wednesday, December 23 and re-open on Wednesday, January 27, 2016.

Messages can be left on the answering machine, but please be aware that they may not be responded to immediately.

In emergency situations, or matters of need, please contact one of the following:

Mark HerrmannRegional HeadM: 0439 104 053

John MaddockAdministration ManagerM: 0419 118 554

Martina EatonCommunity Care WorkerM: 0433 335 815

Jan JohnsonSydney Community Support WorkerM: 0412 731 101

CALLING ALL YOUNG (AND YOUNG-ISH!) CHILDRENPlease contact me if you are interested in participating in the Bentleigh Christmas Service on Sunday, December 20 at 10.00am. The more the merrier. There will be no Sunday School.

Monika Herrmann M: 0429 607 841 E: [email protected]

mailto:monika.i.herrmann%40gmail.com?subject=


BENTLEIGH NEWSMany thanks to all who have attended the Bentleigh working bees throughout the year. There has been an increasing number of volunteers, and the trend of new and younger attendees turning up is especially encouraging.

The Bentleigh property is in good shape, and it is being enjoyed.

Under cool conditions, the third and last Bentleigh working bee for 2015 was held on Saturday, November 7. The rain held off to allow both inside and outside work to be done. Some of the tasks completed were new curtains hung in the Hall, the street sign upgraded with a new cover, doors painted, gutters cleared, lawns fertilised and kitchen exhaust filters cleaned.

Morning tea and lunch were enjoyed, along with much conversation.

Have a relaxing Christmas period, and we look forward to your continued participation in 2016. Peter Ware

Photo by Peter Ware

CLASS REUNION JAHRGANG 1937 TO 1939The 2016 Class Reunion will be in Canberra with activities to be decided early in January.

Any suggestions for activities will be helpful; I hope also to contact potential attendees by mail early in January after a visit to Canberra to look at options.

Dates have not been finalised yet, but please keep the dates between October 3 to 8, 2016 open in your diaries.

In the meantime, Happy Christmas and all the best for next year.

Rolf Beck

Wedding AnniversariesDiamond

Irene and Horst Blaich were married on December 17, 1955.

Golden

Inge and Ulrich Hoefer were married on January 15, 1966.

Silver

Monika and Gary Imberger were married on January 5, 1991.

We wish you all many more years of happiness together

SOMMERFEST

March 6, 2016 10am to 3.30pm

ACTIVITIES Car Boot Sale, Animal Farm, Craft Stalls, Inflatable Boxing Ring, Trampoline,

Graffiti Car, Dot Painting, Tractor Rides, Water Slide, Bookstall & more

FOOD Pretzels, German sausage & salads, Afternoon tea

SERVICE10AM

car boot and craft stall bookings Please contact the TSA Office on (03) 9557 6713.

Booking Fees apply.

51 ELIZABETH STBAYSWATER

SOMMERFEST

March 6, 2016 10am to 3.30pm

ACTIVITIES Car Boot Sale, Animal Farm, Craft Stalls, Inflatable Boxing Ring, Trampoline,

Graffiti Car, Dot Painting, Tractor Rides, Water Slide, Bookstall & more

FOOD Pretzels, German sausage & salads, Afternoon tea

SERVICE10AM

car boot and craft stall bookings Please contact the TSA Office on (03) 9557 6713.

Booking Fees apply.

51 ELIZABETH STBAYSWATER


Kaleidoscope will be starting up again in 2016 and will run every second Saturday of the month.

Kaleidoscope is for all kids aged 10 years and over… from all backgrounds and all families. The common denominator is respect and the aim is to have fun!

Drop in for some company or to catch up with friends, play some pool, listen to music, watch a movie, play games or kick a ball.

If you want to know more about Kaleidoscope contact Susi Richter on 0400 764 257 or email [email protected]

With the Christmas holiday period fast approaching, it is timely to thank all involved – volunteers and employees – for their efforts in providing members and friends with a rich and varied community program of events, activities and initiatives over the course of the year.

For a relatively small organisation, I think we achieve a great deal.

It’s time for a bit of a break in order to allow the batteries to recharge.

From the Office, and on behalf of Regional Council, I take this opportunity of wishing all readers a wonderful Christmas season and safe holidays.

Thank you, one and all!

Mark Herrmann

As many of you would know, I recently broke my ankle, which saw me hospitalised for a period of time and requiring a lot of extra care in my long recovery. This is something I could not do without the support of Martina and Thomas.

I would like to extend my thanks to all the members of the TSA, who have not only extended their well-wishes to me through Martina or in person, but also to everyone who has supported Martina and Thomas throughout this experience. Whether is has been facilitating for Martina to have the time to support me whilst in hospital, or take me to various appointments once I came home, understanding when she has had to reschedule (including her trip to Sydney), or providing general emotional support to both, I am truly grateful. Thank you to the community for your ongoing support. It is much appreciated.

Hayley Verhagen

SAYING THANK YOU

mailto:susi%40templesociety.org.au%20?subject=


BereavementJames (Jim) Anderson born 1942 passed away peacefully after a long illness on Friday, October 23 in the Cabrini Palliative Care Hospital, Prahran, surrounded by his family.

Jim was 73 and is survived by his wife Helga (née Wied), son Christian, daughters Silvia and Erika, his sister Hilda Kirby, in England, and his grandchildren Amelia, Abbey, Noah and Zoe Anderson. He was farewelled by a very large gathering in the Chapel of Reflection at the Springvale Botanical Cemetery on Friday, October 30.

The family wishes to thank Renate Weber most sincerely for officiating and conducting the service, as well as the community and friends for the many cards, tributes, expressions of sympathy and generous donations to the TSA and to Cabrini Health in Jim’s memory.

The family expresses heartfelt thanks to the Cabrini Palliative Care staff for their care and kindness.

Helga, Christian, Silvia and Erika AndersonComing Sydney Events

Friday, December 4TGIF and Christmas DinnerABC StudiosEssen Restaurant, Ultimo4.45pm

Friday, December 11Seniors’ Group Christmas PartyWentworthville Leagues Club 11.30am

Sunday, December 20 Christmas Service Meadowbank Hall 4.00pmElder: Ingrid Turner

Coming Services

Sunday, December 13TTHA 10.30amElder: Theo Richter

Sunday, December 20 Christmas Service Bentleigh Hall 10.00amElder: Mark Herrmann

Friday, December 25Christmas Day ServiceBayswater Chapel10.00amElder: Harald Ruff

SUMMERCAMP 2016Saturday, January 9 to Friday, January 15

Book your Summercamp 2016 spot now, bookings are closing soon!

This is a six-night camp for all kids aged 11 to 15 years. We have a change of camp venue this year and will be going to Torquay. There will be heaps to do, including surfing or beach kayaking, exploring local attractions, the traditional pedestrian rally, games, sports and lots more fun stuff!

Bookings close in the first week of December! Full details and booking forms are available from Susi Richter:

M: 0400 764 257E: [email protected]

mailto:susi%40templesociety.org.au%20?subject=


BENTLEIGHA reminder for those who wish to come in on our bus from Bayswater to Bentleigh – please book as soon as possible with the TSA Office on 9557 6713.

Any batches of Gutsle should be received at the TSA Office by Saturday, December 5 at 2.00pm or left at the Caretaker’s residence, 51 Elizabeth Street, Bayswater no later than Wednesday, December 2.

Raffle prizes and priced craft items may also be left as above or brought along on the Sunday.

Please consider if you can assist with set-up on the Saturday from 2.00pm, assist in the kitchen from 1.30pm on the Sunday or clean up after the event.

For more information, refer to November Templer Talk (page 16) or contact Nanne at the TSA Office.

ADVENTTRADITIONAL GERMAN CELEBRATION

SUNDAY 6 DECEMBER, 2.30pm

THURSDAY 10 DECEMBER, 8.00pm

BENTLEIGH HALL

BAYSWATER HALL

BAYSWATERWe look forward to seeing many of you at this event.

Up to six additional people can be accommodated in the VW van if there is anyone wishing to attend from Bentleigh. I will depart the Bentleigh Hall at 7.00pm.

Book with the TSA Office on 9557 6713 or contact Nanne on 0407 271 764 or by email [email protected]

Craft items will be available for purchase.

We ask for volunteers to help set up the Hall in the morning (beginning 10.00am) and for donations of fir/pine/cypress branches (Tannenzweige) for decoration.

For further information on volunteering and donations, please contact Doris Frank on 0427 181 027.



Rosters

Bayswater Flower RosterChristmas DayFriday, December 25Trudi BlessingHeidrun Messner

Bayswater LawnmowingSunday, December 6Uli HoeferThomas Knaub

Bayswater Service and Morning Tea RosterChristmas DayFriday, December 25Tessa Decker Anja Ruff

Bentleigh Flower RosterChristmas ServiceSunday, December 20No one is required for this service

Bentleigh LawnmowingFriday, December 4Gary ImbergerPeter Ware

Bentleigh Service and Morning Tea RosterContact Helga Anderson

BirthdaysWir gratulieren herzlich zum Geburtstag unserer Mitglieder:

December

Ulrich Asenstorfer Rosemarie Beilharz Irene Eppinger Hans Hornung Gerda Knaub Bruno Krockenberger Nella Kruck Irmgard Loebert Manfred Loebert Heinz Minzenmay Herbert Neef Horst Orth Reinhold Orth Gerd Schlender Harold Slip Linda StellerAlwyn Steltenkamp Gerda Struve

January

Ingeborg ArndtRosemarie AsenstorferAnny BeckHeinz DehnMonika DrosteHelmut EppingerHarald GassmannFelix HaarElsbeth JesererHelga NeefBernd StellerErich Waechter

und wünschen auch allen hier nicht angeführten Geburtstags-kindern alles Gute und Schöne zum neuen Lebensjahr – Happy Birthday!

Changes of AddressGerd Schlender and Erika Anderson have moved. Please contact the TSA Office for their new contact details.

879081817784787677798182887777997687

788584767676869086757779

4 FRI Telelink 2.00pmSy TGIF Christmas Party ABC and Essen Restaurant 4.45pm

6 SUN Advent Celebration Be 2.30pm

8 TUE Be Frauenverein 12.00pm / RC Be 7.30pm

10 THU Advent Celebration Ba 8.00pm

11 FRI Sy Seniors’ Group Christmas Party Wentworthville Leagues Club 11.30am

12 SAT Youth Group Break-up Frankston 6.00pm to 9.30pm

13 SUN Service TTHA 10.30am

18 FRI Term 4 ends (NSW / Vic)

19 SAT Community Christmas Celebration Ba 6.00pm

20 SUN Christmas Service Be 10.00am / Christmas Service Sy 4.00pm

21 MON December Templer Reflections published

23 WED TSA Office and CHAMPION close for 2015

24 THU Christmas Eve

25 FRI Christmas Day Service Ba 10.00am

26 SAT Boxing Day

28 MON Boxing Day Holiday

31 THU New Year’s Eve

1 FRI New Year’s Day

4 MON CHAMPION re-opens for 2016

9 SAT Summercamp 2016 starts / Youth Camp starts

13 WED Youth Camp ends

15 FRI Summercamp 2016 ends

22 FRI Telelink 2.00pm

24 SUN Family Water Fun Day Details TBC

26 TUE Australia Day

27 WED TSA Office re-opens for 2016

E [email protected] | W templesociety.org.au | T 03 9557 6713

December 2015/January 2016

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