by John Clarke

Over the past few years the German language has been making a comeback in the Barossa Valley. The Barossa German Language Association has been active in promoting events for people of all ages, and after the Covid curtailment last year a full programme is now being offered.

For the very young (pre-school children) there is Spielgruppe (play group), which is conducted by the BGLA President, Steffi Traeger. Spielgruppe is held every Tuesday morning from 10 to 11.30, the children learning German words and phrases through play, stories and songs.
For those a little older (of primary school age) there is Kinder Klub (Kids’ Club). Conducted by German born Anett Nuttall, Kinder Klub extends the children’s knowledge of German, again through play and the activities they enjoy. Kinder Klub is held every Thursday afternoon from 4 to 5.30.
Both Spielgruppe and Kinder Klub are held at the Langmeil Centre, 7 Maria Street, Tanunda.

Gundi Tophinke provides adult classes for those who wish to learn German or improve their proficiency in the language. Classes are held in the Lyndoch Library, for beginners on Friday and for the more advanced on Saturday.

Also at the Langmeil Centre is the monthly meeting of Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake). On the last Monday of each month members gather to listen to a guest speaker, who usually speaks in German, and to enjoy fellowship over coffee and cake.

Other activities include visits to the residents at Barossa Village, some of whom spoke German at home in their younger days, and a Singkreis (singing circle), singers who enjoy each others’ company and enjoy singing in German.
The Barossa German Language Association is looking to introduce some traditional German events into the Barossa calendar. For some years now – except last year when Covid struck – there has been a winter Laternenlauf (lantern walk). Children make lanterns and walk singing
with their lanterns through the darkness.